Carmen Pignatiello, or “Piggy” as many fans know him, has a story that mirrors that of the men he will be instructing. He spent seven years in the minor league system before making the Chicago Cubs’ roster in 2007. In his debut appearance with the Cubs, the lefthander threw a scoreless 9th inning against the Cincinnati Reds and continued with the team through their 2007 playoff run. He is confident his own journey can help him inspire and shape the young talent of the Joliet Slammers.

In addition to being able to relate to the players, Pignatiello is also familiar with the Joliet area. He is a graduate of Providence Catholic High School and has lived in Mokena and Frankfort. He and his wife and son currently reside in Aurora.